Senior Associate - Financial Crime Compliance - Managed Services

Job Overview

This role involves supporting managed services engagements focusing on Financial Crime Compliance (FCC), encompassing Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Know Your Customer (KYC), Customer Due Diligence (CDD), Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD), and Regulatory Compliance. The incumbent will oversee compliance projects, perform due diligence evaluations, track regulatory changes both within the UAE and globally, and ensure operational alignment with applicable legal frameworks. The position also emphasizes promoting a culture based on integrity, transparency, and accountability while aiding leadership in expanding managed services operations.

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct KYC, CDD, and EDD assessments and carry out AML, sanctions, Politically Exposed Persons (PEP), and adverse media screenings for customers, employees, and third parties.
• Evaluate adherence to UAE and international AML regulations, compliance policies, and procedures.
• Keep abreast of local and international regulatory developments, analyze their impact on clients, and advise on necessary compliance actions.
• Manage compliance-related projects within managed services programs.
• Compile and deliver compliance reports, dashboards, presentations, and updates tailored for internal teams and client senior management.
• Optionally contribute to the creation, revision, and improvement of compliance policies, protocols, and internal control measures.
• Provide training sessions to team members and newcomers to boost understanding of compliance and regulatory necessities.
• Collaborate with internal divisions and external partners to ensure comprehensive compliance oversight.
• Spot opportunities for process optimization to improve efficiency, internal controls, and overall compliance frameworks.
• Support leadership in aligning compliance projects with overarching business strategies.

Qualifications and Expertise

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant disciplines such as Business Administration, Accounting and Finance, or Law (mandatory).
• Certifications like ACAMS or CFE are preferred but not essential.
• Possession of an MBA or Master’s with an emphasis on Compliance, Business Law, or related fields is advantageous.

Professional Experience

• At least four years of pertinent experience in Financial Crime Compliance, AML, KYC, CDD, EDD, and broader Regulatory Compliance environments.
• Experience with Big 4 accounting firms or prominent consulting organizations is preferred.

Core Competencies

• Extensive understanding of AML, KYC, CDD, EDD methodologies and Financial Crime Compliance risk management.
• Knowledge of regulatory frameworks applicable locally in the UAE and internationally.
• Capability to monitor regulatory environments and assess their implications effectively.
• Skill in stakeholder engagement and fostering cross-team cooperation.
• Exemplary judgment and decision-making skills, especially in high-pressure situations.
• Strategic mindset geared towards aligning compliance efforts with business goals.
• Commitment to continuous enhancement of compliance processes.

Key Skills

• Strong written and oral communication abilities.
• Proficient presentation skills designed for senior management and client discussions.
• Ability to simplify and clarify intricate regulatory requirements for diverse groups.
• Excellent organizational skills with aptitude for handling multiple tasks efficiently.
• Advanced knowledge of MS Office applications including PowerPoint, Excel, and Word, enabling independent preparation of comprehensive proposals and presentations.
• Meticulous attention to detail combined with high ethical standards.